Migrant labour force in India: Impacts, challenges, and policy measures during the Covid-19 lockdown

This global pandemic has created several challenges for every human being. The socio-economic conditions of all countries have been affected by the recent outbreak of the coronavirus. India, too, has been affected by this virus. The central government of India declared a nationwide lockdown. Due to this nationwide lockdown, migrant workers in informal sectors have faced difficulties all over the country. They have been struggling to earn their bread and butter and are concerned about the subsequent sustainability of their livelihood post-Covid. Most migrant workers have returned to their native places. Governments have taken several measures to contain the pandemic and provide daily necessities to all affected people. This paper aims to understand the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on migrant workers. The difficulties faced by the migrants are described in this study, with data collected from various sources. In addition to these, the steps taken by both central and state governments for the development of migrant workers are mentioned in this study. The policy measures and schemes declared for migrant workers during this pandemic situation by the respective governments are analyzed in light of different economic packages.